Nestled in the heart of Provence, the Rousset Cooperative Cellar holds a rich and storied past, a testament to the dedication of winemakers and the power of collaboration. Founded in 1914, the cooperative emerged from a shared desire among local growers to overcome the challenges of fluctuating market prices, limited access to advanced winemaking techniques, and the exploitation of intermediaries.
In 1905, a group of forward-thinking winegrowers gathered around bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal stew, to discuss the formation of a cooperative. Inspired by the success of neighboring co-ops, these gatherings continued, laying the groundwork for the cooperative's official birth in 1914.The outbreak of World War I temporarily halted the cooperative's momentum, forcing it to place its funds in Treasury Bills for national defense. However, the cooperative's resilience shone through. In 1920, the first harvest commenced, with grapes harvested and transported to the winery by horse cart. Mr. Jourdan Roger was appointed manager, overseeing every aspect of the winemaking process, from equipment maintenance to staff recruitment and accounting.
Despite the initial challenges, the cooperative flourished, expanding its operations and developing a reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflected the terroir of Rousset. Today, the cooperative stands as a beacon of excellence, producing an average of 20,000 hectoliters of wine per year in the three colors – red, white, and rosé.
With over 78 members and nearly 400 hectares of vineyards, the cooperative embraces sustainable practices, utilizing organic and conventional agriculture, and adhering to the HVE (High Environmental Value) label. Its wines, both Côtes de Provence and Côtes de Provence Sainte Victoire, showcase the region's unique microclimate and terroir.
The Côtes de Provence Sainte Victoire range, named after the majestic Sainte Victoire mountain, is a testament to the cooperative's dedication to quality. The vineyard, spanning nine communes, benefits from the slightly continental nuances of the region, protected from maritime influences by the Aurelian Mountains and the Sainte Beaume massif. The soils, characterized by limestone and clayey sandstone, nurture the vines, producing flavorful and elegant wines.
As the Rousset Cooperative Cellar celebrates over a century of winemaking excellence, its legacy continues to inspire. The cooperative's commitment to quality, sustainability, and collaboration has solidified its position as a leading producer of fine Provençal wines, captivating wine enthusiasts worldwide. Here are our favorites just for you.